How to Install Recessed LED Lighting Without Attic Access

Today, I'm going to take this room that has no lighting in it right now it's just got a switched lamp on it which really stinks. I'm going to convert that into recessed lighting with LEDs and do it all without access from above. Here’s how you can do it step by step.

Materials and Tools

Before we start, here are the materials and tools you will need:

• 6-inch LED wafer lights
• 6-3/8 inch abrasive hole saw
• Hole saw dust bowl
• Side handle drill
• Non-contact voltage tester
• High-quality voltage tester
• Knockout connectors
• Wire strippers
• Fish tape
• Protective gloves

Steps

1. Intro

Today, I'm going to convert a room with no lighting into one with recessed LED lights without attic access. This room is 14 by 14, and currently, it only has a standing lamp for lighting.

2. 6 'WAFER' LED LIGHT SEE DESCRIPTION FOR DETAILS

I'm using a 6-inch LED wafer light for this project. The beauty of these lights is that I don't have to worry about where the studs are located.

3. 6-3/8 ABRASIVE HOLE SAW

To cut the hole for the light, I’m using a 6-3/8 inch abrasive hole saw. I tested the fit on a piece of drywall to ensure the light's outside ring would cover it.

4. HOLE SAW DUST BOWL

Since cutting holes can be very dusty, I'm using a hole saw dust bowl to keep the dust contained. This tool is invaluable for maintaining a clean work area.

5. INSTALL TIP: RUN A TOOTHED HOLE SAW IN REVERSE TO REDUCE GRABBING

When using a toothed hole saw, run it in reverse to prevent grabbing and jumping.

6. INSTALL TIP: USE A SIDE HANDLE TO KEEP DRILL STEADY

A side handle can help keep the drill steady and reduce the risk of injury.

7. INSTALL TIP: ALWAYS TURN OFF POWER BEFORE WORKING WITH ELECTRICITY

Always ensure the power is turned off before working with electricity to avoid any accidents.

8. NON-CONTACT VOLTAGE TESTER

Use a non-contact voltage tester to identify which wires are live before starting your work.

9. INSTALL TIP: INVEST IN A HIGH QUALITY VOLTAGE TESTER

Invest in a high-quality voltage tester for accurate readings and safety.

10. INSTALL TIP: HAVING SOMEONE TO HELP YOU MAKES THE PROJECT MUCH EASIER

Having an extra set of hands can make the project much easier and safer.

11. INSTALL TIP: WHEN WORKING WITH ELECTRICITY ALWAYS CONSULT A LICENSED ELECTRICIAN

When dealing with electrical work, always consult a licensed electrician to ensure everything is done safely and up to code.

12. INSTALL TIP: DON’T DRILL THROUGH STUDS OR JOISTS BLINDLY

Avoid drilling through studs or joists blindly; always do exploratory holes to see what's behind the surface.

13. INSTALL TIP: GET IC RATED LIGHTS IF YOU HAVE INSULATION

If you have insulation in your ceilings, get IC-rated lights that are safe for insulation contact.

14. INSTALL TIP: ALWAYS USE KNOCKOUT CONNECTORS TO PROTECT WIRE

Use knockout connectors to protect the wire from sharp edges and to prevent it from pulling back.

15. INSTALL TIP: WEAR GLOVES DURING INSTALL TO KEEP CLEAN

Wear gloves during installation to keep the lights and ceiling clean from dirt and fingerprints.

Conclusion

With these tips and the right tools, you can efficiently install recessed LED lighting in your room, even without attic access. This upgrade will significantly improve the lighting and appearance of your space.